Symbol Hunt
At a Glance
- Time: 3-4 minutes
- Prep: Minimal (select symbols/images)
- Group: Pairs
- Setting: Any classroom
- Subjects: Universal
- Energy: Medium
Purpose
Symbol Hunt activates visual-spatial thinking and metaphorical connections by challenging students to identify symbols related to upcoming content, bridging everyday imagery with academic concepts.
How It Works
Step-by-step instructions:
- DISPLAY SYMBOLS (30 seconds) - Show 5-7 simple symbols or emojis on screen
- CONNECT AND EXPLAIN (2 minutes) - Partners identify which symbols relate to topic and why
- SHARE (1.5 minutes) - Quick popcorn sharing of creative connections
What to Say
Opening: "Look at these symbols. With your partner, identify which ones might connect to today's topic: [PHOTOSYNTHESIS]. Explain your reasoning."
During: "Think metaphorically! How might this symbol represent an aspect of what we're studying? There are many right answers."
Closing: "I heard fascinating connections! Who connected the sun symbol? The chain? Tell us your thinking."
Why It Works
Visual symbols engage the right hemisphere and create memorable mental models. Generating metaphorical connections activates deep cognitive processing and creates multiple retrieval pathways, enhancing later recall.
Research Citation: Paivio, 1986 (Dual Coding Theory)
Teacher Tip
Choose abstract symbols rather than obvious pictures. A gear, chain, or lightning bolt requires more creative thinking than a picture of a plant for photosynthesis.
Variations
For Different Subjects
- Math/Science: Show symbols like arrows, circles, spirals, waves—connect to concepts
- Humanities: Use cultural symbols, icons, or historical imagery
- Universal: Mix emojis representing emotions, actions, and objects
For Different Settings
- Large Class (30+): Project symbols; use think-pair-share before whole class discussion
- Small Group (5-15): Each student picks one symbol to explain connection
For Different Ages
- Elementary (K-5): Use familiar symbols/emojis; allow drawing of own symbols
- Middle/High School (6-12): More abstract symbols requiring deeper analysis
- College/Adult: Academic or discipline-specific symbols and icons
Online Adaptation
Tools Needed: Slide with symbols, breakout rooms
Setup: Create slide with 6-8 diverse symbols
Instructions:
- Display symbols in main room
- Send to breakout rooms to discuss (2 min)
- Return and use annotation tools to mark connected symbols
Pro Tip: Use Jamboard where pairs can draw lines connecting symbols to concept keywords.
Troubleshooting
Challenge: Students say "None of these connect" Solution: "Think creatively! Even unlikely symbols can connect through metaphor."
Challenge: Everyone picks the same obvious symbol Solution: "Now find a connection for a symbol no one else chose"
Extension Ideas
- Deepen: "Create your own symbol that best represents [concept]"
- Connect: Throughout lesson, reference symbols when explaining concepts
- Follow-up: Exit ticket: "Which symbol makes most sense now? Why?"
Related Activities: Image Prompt, See-Think-Wonder, Notice and Wonder